Grading the pick: The Miami Dolphins draft LB Kyle Louis at No. 138 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft
With the 138th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Miami Dolphins have selected LB Kyle Louis.
With the No. 138 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins have selected Pittsburgh Panthers linebacker Kyle Louis. Louis is an undersized, prolific athlete who is one of the best coverage linebackers in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Dolphins, in short succession, have added two diverse talents to Jeff Hafley’s new defense in the fourth round of today’s Day 3. Louis is a draft analyst darling in this class — and he’ll give Hafley a piece to groom.
Here’s what you need to know about the pick and how Louis projects to the Miami Dolphins.
What to know about new Miami Dolphins LB Kyle Louis
Age: 22
A to Z Sports Draft Projection: Eventual Good Starter
Career Projection:
“In the Pitt defensive system, Louis has held many different roles. That includes as an overhang defender, inside linebacker, and de facto safety. He is a tough and tenacious defender who has little fear in mixing it up inside of the box. Louis plays well above his weight class when taking on blocks and coming to balance as a tackler. He is incredibly comfortable navigating space, including playing in coverage, in pursuit, and playing the perimeter run game. Due to Louis’s size, there are clear limitations. He will always struggle when taking on blocks from a stacked position and brings a smaller tackle radius to the table. There has to be a defined role for Louis but for the defensive coordinator who has a solid one, Louis has the chance to become a weapon for a defense.”
Ryan roberts
A to Z Sports NFL
Grading the Miami Dolphins selection of LB Kyle Louis
The hallmark portion of Louis’ pre-draft process came at the Senior Bowl. Louis was sensational as a coverage player and showcased the ability to match both tight ends and running backs in the pass game. That’s been a sore spot for the Dolphins in recent years, so getting a chance to pluck someone like Louis early on Day 3 is a terrific opportunity.
The floor for Louis feels like a sub-package coverage player and special teams contributor; but it isn’t hard to envision a player with his impact play ability gradually carving out a tailored, specialized starter role.
Grade: A+
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